A STUDENT at a school in Taunton has tested positive for Covid-19.

Parents received a letter from Heathfield Community School in Taunton making them aware a student in year 11 tested positive for coronavirus.

The letter said year 11 students and anyone who was in close contact with the individual must self-isolate for 14 days.

A parent at the school said: “The school have emailed quickly and it is only a single case.

“It is also the first one they have had, so their precautions must have been good so far.

“But I would still hope that they are more vigilant with the Covid-19 rules in the future and cleaning is stepped up.”

One of the students told his mum the year 11s were “herded” onto the AstroTurf when they arrived into school and the test came back positive.

They said the students were taped off inside a cordon and left there with no explanation until after 10am.

A spokesperson for Heathfield Community School said: “Public Health England South West and Somerset County Council’s Public Health and Education teams are working together to support pupils, parents and staff following a confirmed case of COVID-19 at the school.

"Close contacts of the confirmed case, a Year 11 pupil, have been provided with public health advice and are self-isolating.  

"Following discussions with PHE this involves all of Year 11, a total of 240 pupils.

"A comprehensive deep clean of the affected areas of the school is being undertaken.

"School staff and parents have been provided with public health advice including what to do if someone becomes symptomatic.

"Parents have been advised it is not necessary for any other member of the household to self-isolate unless they become symptomatic.

"It is also not necessary to arrange for a test unless you are symptomatic."